Convolvulaceae

Convolvulaceae, known commonly as the bindweed or morning glory family, is a family of about 60 genera and more than 1,650 species of mostly herbaceous vines, but also trees, shrubs and herbs.

Description

Convolvulaceae can be recognized by their funnel-shaped, radially symmetrical corolla; the floral formula for the family has five sepals, five fused petals, five epipetalous stamens (stamens fused to the petals), and a two-part syncarpous and superior gynoecium. The stems of these plants are usually winding, hence their Latin name (from convolvere, "to wind"). The leaves are simple and alternate, without stipules. The fruit can be a capsule, berry, or nut, all containing only two seeds per one locule (one ovule/ovary).

Ipomoea indica

Ipomoea indica is a species of flowering plant in the family Convolvulaceae, known by several common names, including blue morning glory, oceanblue morning glory, koali awa, and blue dawn flower.

Description

Ipomoea indica is a vigorous tender perennial vine native to tropical habitats throughout the world. It bears heart-shaped or 3-lobed leaves and rich purple funnel-shaped flowers 6–8 cm (2–3 in) in diameter, from spring to autumn. As it does not tolerate temperatures below 7 °C (45 °F), in temperate regions it is grown under glass.

The Latin specific epithet indica means from India, or the East Indies or China.

This plant has gained the Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit.

Invasive species

It has become a noxious weed and invasive species in Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, California and Portugal. It can grow as a separate plant if snapped during attempted removal process.

In New Zealand, it is classed as an unwanted organism under the Biosecurity Act 1993 and it is therefore illegal to sell, propagate and distribute the plant. It is listed on the National Pest Plant Accord.